News

Activists learn to run youth campaigns in two Florida Youth Leadership Schools

October 26, 2011 | By Mikayla Hall

This fall has been extremely busy for LI’s Youth Leadership School (YLS) department. In October alone, there have been six YLS trainings around the country. The Sunshine State is particularly popular: LI trained 56 young conservatives in Tampa and Tallahassee this month.

The YLS, an intensive, two-day program known as the “boot camp” of politics, is the Leadership Institute’s flagship training. Attendees learn what it takes to build an effective student organization and youth campaign. The YLS has launched more political careers than any other Institute training.

In Tampa, 21 conservative activists from more than five organizations participated.

“[The YLS] has been a life-changing experience for me,” said Mechelle Morgan, a University of South Florida student.“I will remember this weekend for the rest of my life.”

One week later, 35 conservatives attended the Tallahassee YLS. Graduates left the training energized and ready to get involved. There were three students who had returned to take the YLS again, and others expressed interest in hosting their own YLS in their hometown.

Anna Crow, an attendee and Institute supporter from Pensacola, said, “Seeing all the bright, intelligent, knowledgeable students here was the most heart-warming part—the future leaders of America.”

Interested in attending the Youth Leadership School? There are still eight trainings in 2011. To register for this school and other schools, please go here.